Camilla Cardoso was touted as a potential WNBA star long before the Chicago Sky took her third overall in this year’s draft. The Brazil-born center was a top recruit coming out of high school and went on to win two NCAA championships with the South Carolina Gamecocks. Now, she’s expected to lead the Sky‘s rebuild alongside Angel Reese — her college adversary.

However, the start of Cardoso‘s pro career will be delayed due to a right shoulder injury that she suffered in Chicago‘s preseason opener against the Minnesota Lynx. It’s a tough setback for the 23-year-old Cardoso, who faces several weeks out of action for a Sky team embarking on a new chapter three years after winning their maiden championship.

Cardoso speaks about her tough injury break

While she is injured, Cardoso has said she is going to continue watching and learning as she awaits clearance to return to the floor. She said teammates like Reese have been supportive and have helped her stay “connected,” even though her shoulder is keeping her away from the hardwood.

Cardoso has further cited her faith as a reason to keep believing in the process — and that when she returns, the 6’7” center will be able to dominate the inside, just as she did for three years at South Carolina.

Cardoso’s coach at South Carolina, the legendary Dawn Staley, has reached out and told Cardoso just to keep being herself — to not let the injury and the associated frustration get her down. It’s a simple message, but coming from a three-time NCAA champion coach, it’s a message that means a lot to a young player.

The Sky’s 2024 season begins on May 15 with a visit to the Dallas Wings. Cardoso, expected to miss up to six weeks, seems unlikely to take the court until mid-June at the earliest.